Empire of Normality

Neurodiversity and Capitalism

By: Robert Chapman

Narrated by: Elliot Fitzpatrick

'Groundbreaking . . . [provides] a deep history of the invention of the "normal" mind as one of the most damaging and oppressive tools of capitalism. To read it is to see the world more clearly' Steve Silberman, author of NeuroTribes

Neurodiversity is on the rise. Awareness and diagnoses have exploded in recent years, but we are still missing a wider understanding of how we got here and why. Beyond simplistic narratives of normativity and difference, this groundbreaking book exposes the very myth of the 'normal' brain as a product of intensified capitalism.

Exploring the rich histories of the neurodiversity and disability movements, Robert Chapman shows how the rise of capitalism created an 'empire of normality' that transformed our understanding of the body into that of a productivity machine. Neurodivergent liberation is possible—but only by challenging the deepest logics of capitalism. Empire of Normality is an essential guide to understanding the systems that shape our bodies, minds, and deepest selves—and how we can undo them.

©2023 Robert Chapman (P)2025 Tantor Media

Who decides about inclusion and why?

I'm a woman of colour, immigrant and ADHD. Trust me, I know a bit about not fitting the norm and being othered. I really appreciate DEI allyship and all efforts to create an inclusive society. I worked in the DEI office at a top university. But something always rubbed me up the wrong way. I always wondered who decides who gets to be included? Into what inner circle? On what grounds? And why them? And why is it that companies that usually have nothing else at heart than making their shareholders and owners rich seemed to be the trailblazers of a neurodiversity inclusion movement? Isn't this obviously fishy? When did EY, Deloitte, Microsoft and SAP last do anything in the intrerest of humankind rather than someone's deep pocket?

Chapman meticulously disects the hypocricy behind the generous inclusion efforts for people labeled as neurodivergent. Rarely has a book packed with facts touched me so deeply.

Excellent Book

I was recommending this book to others before I even finished it!

This is a vital and relevant topic that I hope to hear more discourse on.